Back to School Tip - Lunch Boxes

Back to school sales are all here.  I know that for some it is a stressful process.  Little bit and I hit the shopping isles at Walmart yesterday.  She needs a lunch box for the year.  I started out in the back to school section.  We found some cute ones a frog shaped lunch box, one with hearts and flowers.  They were cute but I was not happy with the size they were small or the quality I thought there is not way these would make it through the year.  They were also expensive.  They ranged from 8-12 dollars.  I would not mind that price for something of quality.  So I started to think out of the box.  I headed over to the kitchen supply section and found more of the same little lunch bags.   Then it hit me!!  The cooler section in sporting goods.  There it was a large six can cooler with a separate section on top for dry foods.  This box is perfect for our needs the bottom section has plenty of room for sippy cups and cool food and the other foods will fit great in the top section.  The best news is this lunch box was only $6.  I am so happy I set away from the back to school stuff and got creative to find a better, cheaper lunch box!!!

Book Review: Wedded to War

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Wedded to War • River North; New Edition edition (July 1, 2012)
by Jocelyn Green

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Jocelyn Green is a child of God, wife and mom living in Cedar Falls, Iowa. She is also an award-winning journalist, author, editor and blogger. Though she has written nonfiction on a variety of topics, her name is most widely recognized for her ministry to military wives: Faith Deployed. Her passion for the military family was fueled by her own experience as a military wife, and by the dozens of interviews she has conducted with members of the military for her articles and books, Faith Deployed: Daily Encouragement for Military Wives and its sequel, Faith Deployed...Again: More Daily Encouragement for Military Wives. She is also co-author of both Stories of Faith and Courage from the War in Iraq & Afghanistan and Stories of Faith and Courage from the Home Front (forthcoming, May 2012). Her Faith Deployed Web site and Facebook page continue to provide ongoing support, encouragement and resources for military wives worldwide.






ABOUT THE BOOK

When war erupted, she gave up a life of privilege for a life of significance.
Tending to the army's sick and wounded meant leading a life her mother does not understand and giving up a handsome and approved suitor. Yet Charlotte chooses a life of service over privilege, just as her childhood friend had done when he became a military doctor. She soon discovers that she's combatting more than just the rebellion by becoming a nurse. Will the two men who love her simply stand by and watch as she fights her own battles? Or will their desire for her wage war on her desire to serve God?

Wedded to War is a work of fiction, but the story is inspired by the true life of Civil War nurse Georgeanna Woolsey. Woolsey's letters and journals, written over 150 years ago, offer a thorough look of what pioneering nurses endured. This is the first in the series "Heroines Behind the Lines: Civil War," a collection of novels that highlights the crucial contributions made by women during times of war.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Wedded to War, go HERE.

My Thoughts:
I went through phases of liking and disliking this book as I read it.  There was something in the book I just can't put my finger on that I did not enjoy as much.  I think part of it was the side story of Ruby at times was hard for me to swallow.  Even though it was realistic it was well, sad.  But for the most part I liked this story.  I ended it wanting to read the next books in the series so I think that is a very good thing.  I give this book 3 out of 5 stars. It is an interesting read and very lively. 
Disclaimer:  I did receive a free copy of this book for review purposes, all opinions in this review are my own and are not impacted by the company.

Caillou Review

Caillou's Mysteries and Adventures

I don't know about in your family, but we have a little girl who loves Caillou.  When I tell her we are going to the library she tells me that Caillou went to the library.   She asks to watch him often.  We don't watch a ton of TV but I love to have DVDs to put in over TV so I can have more control over what is playing.  This video features 12 adventures.  I love how there are so many of these short adventures so we can watch them one or two at a time and have fresh Caillou for several different TV times.  

Like I said we have a big Caillou fan in this house.  This video did not disappoint her she has loved watching it.  The only problem is we used to watch it just on the TV channels and she would ask and I could tell her it was not on at that time.  Now she knows that we have a DVD and it could be on at any time he he he.  I like all the exploring and new adventures Caillou goes on.  I like that it is exposing little bit to all these new ideas and concepts.  My only complaint with Caillou is his sometimes whiny whines, but I guess that is true to his age, I still wish it was an area he was a better example for the kids.  

Disclaimer:  I did receive a review copy of a Caillou's Mysteries and Adventures for review purposes only, all opinions are my own and were not influenced by the company. 

Book Review- Almost Amish

This week, the  Christian Fiction Blog Alliance  is introducing  Almost Amish  Bethany House Publishers (July 1, 2012)  by  Kathryn Cushman



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Kathryn Cushman is a graduate of Samford University with a degree in pharmacy, but all her life she knew that she wanted to write a novel “some day”. For her, “some day” came in 2003, when she started writing and never looked back.



Her first two manuscripts remain firmly ensconced in the back of her closet (the dust bunnies tell her they really are terrific!). Her third attempt became her first published novel.



A Promise to Remember and Leaving Yesterday were both finalists for the American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award, and Waiting for Daybreak was a finalist in Women’s Fiction for the Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award.



On the homefront, she has been married to the wonderful and handsome Lee for nearly twenty-five years now, and their two daughters are currently braving the worlds of high school and college.



They’ve lived in Santa Barbara for over twenty years. It’s a beautiful place and Kathryn feel blessed to be there (although a seventy degree Christmas still leaves her dreaming of a white one—or at least a colder one!)



When she's not writing or reading or braving seventy degree holidays, you’ll find her trying her best to keep up with her daughters in their various theater, softball, dance, and filled-with-activity lives.   



ABOUT THE BOOK

Proving the Simple Life Isn't So Simple After All



Overcommitted and overwhelmed, Julie Charlton is at the breaking point. She knows she should feel blessed as a mother and wife--but she just feels exhausted. And then, the miraculous happens. Her sister-in-law Susan, a Martha Stewart-in-training, lands the chance to participate in a reality TV series about trying to live like the Amish and needs another family to join her. It's just the break Julie needs.



But the summer adventure in simple living soon proves anything but simple. With the camera watching every move, Susan's drive for perfection feels a lot like what they left behind, while Julie suddenly finds herself needing to stand up for slowing down. Whether it's cooking, cleaning, or dressing differently, each new Amish challenge raises new complications...and soon each woman learns unexpected lessons about herself and her family.



If you would like to read the first chapter of Almost Amish, go HERE.

My Thoughts:
When I started this book I was really skeptical of the story line.  Following a family who were pretending to be kinda Amish just seemed like there would not be much story there, but I was intrigued and wanted to see how it would unfold.  It turned out to be agood easy read.  It was not the type of book I was so wrapped up in that I could not put it down, but it was a fun read.  I actually really enjoyed reading about the behind the scenes of  reality TV.  I found Julie very easy to relate to.  I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.  It is a good easy read.  


Disclaimer:  I did receive a free copy of this book for review purposes, all opinions in this review are my own and are not impacted by the company.

Book Review- Inescapable

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Inescapable Bethany House Publishers (July 1, 2012) by Nancy Mehl

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Nancy Mehl lives in Wichita, Kansas with her husband Norman and their dog, Watson. She’s authored thirteen books and is currently at work on her newest series for Bethany House Publishing.

All of Nancy’s novels have an added touch – something for your spirit as well as your soul. “I welcome the opportunity to share my faith through my writing,” Nancy says. “It’s a part of me and of everything I think or do. God is number one in my life. I wouldn’t be writing at all if I didn’t believe that this is what He’s called me to do. I hope everyone who reads my books will walk away with the most important message I can give them: God is good, and He loves you more than you can imagine. He has a good plan especially for your life, and there is nothing you can’t overcome with His help.”

She and her husband attend Believer’s Tabernacle in Wichita.


ABOUT THE BOOK

Lizzie Engel is used to running away. At eighteen, she left her Mennonite hometown, Kingdom, Kansas, with plans never to return.

But five years later, the new life she built is falling apart. Lizzie knows she's being followed, and she's certain the same mysterious stranger is behind the threatening letters she's received. Realizing she'll have to run again, the only escape Lizzie can manage is a return to the last place she wants to go.

Once she arrives in Kingdom, Lizzie is confident she'll be safe until she comes up with a new plan. In reacquainting herself with the town and its people--especially her old friend, Noah Housler--she wonders if she judged her hometown and her Mennonite faith too harshly. However, just as she begins to come to terms with her roots, Lizzie is horrified to discover the danger she ran from is closer than ever.

No longer sure who to trust and fearful for her life and the lives of those around her, Lizzie finds she has only one place left to run--to the Father whose love is inescapable.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Inescapable, go HERE.

My thoughts:
I loved this book.  After I read the description I was not sure if this was going to be a book for me or not.  Sometimes mysteries can be scarier then I enjoy, I get started in them and don't want to keep reading because I am scared of the outcome, but keep reading because the unknown on those is scary too.  This book was not so.  It was not so scary that I could not handle reading it with ease.  I liked how the whole book is written in Lizzie's point of view.  Many books I have read jumps from one character's thoughts to the next I liked being able to see it all from Lizzie's eyes knowing only what she knew and thought.  I must say the book kept me guess on who the3 bad guy was.  I made one guess at the being of the book, but then quickly changed my mind most of the book I was guessing at the answer and in the end realized my first guess was correct.  I really liked how the author made Lizzie such a likeable character.  It was very easy to picture how she was feeling and understand and relate to her fears and joys through out the book.   I give this book 5 out of 5 stars it is a must read!!  I was glad to see it is the first in the Road to Kingdom series meaning there will be more to come!!

Disclaimer:  I did receive a free copy of this book for review purposes only.  All opinions in this post are my own and are not influenced by the company. 

Book Review- Prize of my Heart

Book Review:

Prize of my Heart 

By: Lisa Norato

From the Back of the Book:

Three years ago, Captain Brogan Talvis's late wife abandoned their son, leaving no clue as to the boy's whereabouts. After searching relentlessly, Brogan discovers his son was adopted by a New England shipbuilder. And the man's daughter, Lorena Huntley, acts as loving guardian to the child.

Lorena, who hides a dark truth, finds herself falling for the handsome captain and ex-privateer who's come to secure ownership of one of her father's ships. She's unaware of Brogan's own secret when another's deceit has her sailing toward Europe against her will.

Haunted by thoughts of Lorena in peril, Brogan is compelled to choose between the boy he longs for and the woman who has captured his heart.

My Thoughts:

I loved this book.  I found both Lorena and Brogan very easy to relate to.  I thought the book was well written and easy to read.  I loved the adventures out on the sea.  This is the second book I have read that talks about privateers I must admit I know very little about the world of privateers these books have made me curious on the subject I really need to do some research and learn more.  I can tell by what I have read in this book that is was a controversial topic back in the time period the story is written.  

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars!!

Disclaimer:  I did receive a free copy of this book for review purposes from the company.  All opinions in this post are my own and not influenced by the company.  

Tot School- Summer Time

 

Our library has started their summer reading program.  We are all signed up to read books.  If she reads 20 books this summer she wins a free game of put put golf and also get a prize each week for reading 5 books.  She loves trips to the library.  They have computers, a train table and so many books!!  We will be planning to go at least once a week.  They also have programs and special guests all summer long, seems like some fun events.  Most libraries do some sort of summer reading program make sure you check in to see what your local library is up to this summer.  

We are planning to spend alot of time outside this summer what fun!!  Little bit loves going for bike rides and kayaking trips she really enjoys any kind of outside adventure. 

We have not done as much sit down and work type of school things instead we have added a lot of education into what we are already doing.  Counting crackers, spotting letters in our books.  Talking about front and back when getting in the grocery cart.  She loves playing with her letter magnets on the fridge.  She has two sets and is able to match the letters up.  I am planning to add in a little more paper work back into our school time, but our focus will continue to be learning through the environment.

We got a need toy for tot time at a garage sale this weekend.  It is a pegboard with larger shaped pegs.  It has already been well worth the $1 we paid for it.  So far I have let baby bug explore it on her own she has rearranged the pegs and built tall towers.  I plan to guide her in some sorting with it this week.

Watermelon - easy scoop

 

Did you know that an ice cream scoop makes a great may to get watermelon pieces?  So simple why did I not realize this before now?  No slicing and stick mess all over my counter.  Just a few simple scoops and I have a bowl of watermelon.  Yum, Yum, watermelon is one of my favorite parts of summer!!

Book Review- The Bride Wore Blue

Book Review

The Bride Wore Blue 

By: Mona Hodgson

From the Back of the Book:

The youngest Sinclair, the family “baby”, is moving from Maine to Cripple Creek, Colorado and joining Kat, Nell, and Ida. But Vivian is a young woman with a will of her own, and made some decisions back in Portland that have begun to haunt her. Will she be able to live up to the expectations of her three perfect and now happily-settled sisters?

My Thoughts:

This book is one of three.  I think a long while back I may have read the first in the series, but it has been so long that I could not remember much from the story line.  Though it was not hard to read the story without the other two books I feel that the story is really lacking in getting a good picture of the characters and their connections and feeling to each other from the other books.  I did not relate well to the main character, Vivian,  her line of thinking and bitterness toward her sisters was well annoying at times.  I also did not think the romance between her and Carter was not believable.  They just seemed to fall in love without knowing anything about each other, it was just to abrupt.    This book was ok but far from a favorite of mine.  Bottom line I give it at 3 out of 5.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book for review purposes only.  All opinions in this review are my own and were not influenced by the company.

PsiBands Review

Do you suffer from nausea?  I suffer from car sickness. Let me tell you it can make family vacation miserable.   I have found a product that can curb that nausea.  The PsiBand are very cute acupressure wristbands.  I love that these little bands are drug free relief.  They are FDA cleared and scientifically proven to relieve nausea due to travel/motion sickness, pregnancy, chemotherapy and anesthesia.  These bands are waterproof so they would be perfect for boat rides, or pregnant women who may want to wear them in the shower or while doing chores such as washing dishes.  They are very cute I received the dark red with white flowers, cute!! The bands are very user friendly simply place them on the wrist with the white bump in the right spot and snap into place.  There are several size options so it will fit a wide variety of people.  

The PsiBands retail at about $16 a set - one band for each wrist.  I think anyone who has dealt with nausea can tell you this is worth it for the relief!!

I received a product to review as a member of the Living Your Moment   review team. All opinions are mine and mine alone. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC 16 CFR Part 255 concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising.

Honey Bunches of Oats Review and Giveaway

I am not one to spend lots of time cooking breakfast.  We have eggs a couple of times a week and other then that is cereal or oatmeal for breakfast.  With that in mind I like to find cereals that are a little more healthy.  I feel like Honey Bunches of Oats fits the bill.  It has 10 grams of whole grain, only six grams of sugar and 2 grams of fiber.  I enjoy the crunch from the bunches and this cereal seems to do a good job of keeping me full for several hours through my morning.  You can find out all about Honey Bunches of Oats on their facebook page. 

Honey Bunches of Oats has come out with a new line of Fruit Blends Cereals!  I can not wait to try these out.  Want to hear some good news?  Two Learning to be thrifty readers will get receive coupons to try their own Honey Bunches of Oats for free!  Just use the Rapplecopter Widget to enter.  Giveaway ends 6/5/2012

a Rafflecopter giveaway Disclaimer:  Post provided a free sample of their honey bunches of oats- Honey Roasted so I could review it.  However, all the opinions expressed here are my own. 

Book Review- Brush of Angel's Wings

Book Review: Brush of Angel's Wings 

By: Ruth Reid 

Book Description

Rachel and Jordan's feelings for each other are hostile at first, but angelic intervention helps the two discover peace . . . and perhaps love.

The youngest and last unmarried of four sisters, Rachel Hartlzer spends most of her time helping with barn chores. Her role abruptly changes when her father hires Jordan Engles, the son he always wanted.

As Jordan takes on brotherly roles around the house, like escorting Rachel to the youth singing, the enmity between the two grows. Besides, Jordan has one foot in the Englisch world and is determined not to get involved with an Amish girl.

Neither realizes that God has sent an angel, Nathaniel, to help mend their hearts. The angel’s intervention helps them find peace and healing in accepting God's will for their lives.

My Thoughts:

I enjoyed this book.  I was not sure at first what I thought of Nathaniel the angel or Tangus the demon.  I know that the are Angels and demons I just am not sure what their role in our lives look like.  I am sure it is very possible that they are vying for a place in our thoughts.  The things that these two said kind of reminded me of the good and bad angels on your shoulder.  The story was charming and I easily could relate to Rachel and her situations and feelings.  For part of the book I wondered about Jordan as an outsider and one not raised in the community I thought he knew to much about the culture and such and that confused me at first.  But as I read I realized that his mother raised him with many of the values and traditions of community even though they lived in the world.  Over all I was pleased with this book and enjoyed the story line.  I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.  

Disclaimer:  I was given a copy of this book for review purposes.  All the opinions in this post are my own and are not influenced by the company.